The world has welcomed a rising star in the gospel music industry. Named Tolulope Oloruntoba, he spoke with our reporter in an interview recently. He spoke about his career and mission in the industry.
There are claims that the lifestyle of some gospel artistes does not reflect the true gospel. What is your take on this?
You may be right. Gospel music is so broad and requires a lot of styles and creativity from every individual in this field. The fact is that some people started well and later get distracted with worldly things along the line and probably when they get to stardom. The word, gospel literally means good news. As a gospel musician, you must be able to give a distinctive music and live a righteous life. The primary aim must not be missing in everything we do. Also, gospel musicians must leave a worthy life and portray a good example for people to emulate. Our messages should not only be by mouth, but what we preach must also be reflected in our lives. We must evangelise the gospel and win souls for Christ through our talents.
What is the distinctive thing you have brought into the gospel music industry?
I thank God for making me a vessel unto honour. It is a great joy that I am using my talent for God as a gospel musician. The distinctive thing I have brought into this fold is the heart of praise through gospel high-life and hip-pop. I also believe in creativity. Though, I have mentors in music, I have my own style which makes me different.
At what point did you discover you have passion for music?
I developed the passion at my tender age, precisely when I was still in primary school. I started as an instrumentalist and I really appreciated my parents for encouraging my dream. I remember that my dad registered me in a music academy back then and whenever I got home he always put me through a lot of musical notes as a pianist. I also listened to different kind of gospel songs very well before I eventually fell in love with (gospel) music. Alongside, I was made a music instructor in my church which gave me an opportunity to develop my gift. Also, my background and the environment I grew up from are all about gospel.
How have you been able to carve a niche for yourself in the industry?
I am working very hard by the day to carve a niche for myself. I have my brand and I am not resting to raise my game in the industry. I am not under pressure or threat to achieve this. The industry is friendly and I am committed to impacting lives with my talent. Though I don’t really have the street experience, I am conscious of my upbringing as a pastor’s son. I am happy that I am following my passion, because it gives me joy. As I said earlier, gospel music preaches good news and gives one more understanding to sing with inspiration.
What has been your greatest challenge?
The challenges are enormous, but God’s grace and wisdom has been helping me all the way. Anyone that aspires to reach the top must face one challenge or the other, but the main thing is that one must always have a way to overcome challenges. These could also pave one’s way to the top.
Who are your role models?
I don’t have a specific role model, because of the style of my music. I do gospel highlife and gospel hip-pop. I listen to a lot of gospel music and I carve out what I need in it. I follow the inspiration given by God and also create my own style, which people can trend on.
Do you feel threatened as an upcoming artiste among your peers?
No, because inspiration will keep coming since there is divine gift and challenges also give me more charisma and moral. My perspective of gospel song is unique, so, I can never imagine I have a threat.
You are planning to launch your first album in a few weeks time, could you let us know what shape it will take?
I am trusting God for a great event. Plans are in the top gear to host fans and colleagues to celebrate with me. This event is very special to me, because it is my first work and I am confident that God will manifest Himself through the event. The title of the album is My time has come. The event will hold on December 10, at Christ Coming Redeemers Ministry church, at Ugbe Akoko, Ondo State.
If not music, what would you have gone into?
I would have become a managing director of a bank, because I put zeal in everything I do and I work hard to reach my peak. I read Accounting and I have lots of friends I have trained in this line and they have become great in the banking industry and other fields.
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